Eddie Howe has admitted that he was actually “slightly disappointed” to see Elliot Anderson secure a loan move to League Two last month, believing the Toon teenager was good enough for the Championship.
The 19-year-old was heavily linked with Luton Town and looked likely to join at one stage, while League One side Sheffield Wednesday were also credited with late interest.
However, he ended up sealing a deadline day move to Bristol Rovers and has been a revelation since linking up with former Mag Joey Barton; which is ‘no surprise’ to Eddie Howe.
He’s scored his first goal in senior football, bagged two assists and secured a few man of the match awards, with many Rovers fans realising he is levels above the fourth tier of English football.
Howe clearly agrees, having this to say on his electric start to life in the men’s game:
“We’re really pleased with Elliot.
“I think he needed to go out and play, and get that feeling of regular football.
“We were slightly disappointed that it was in League Two, because I feel Elliot’s ready, in my opinion, for the Championship.
“I think he’s a very talented lad, and it’s no surprise that he’s gone to Bristol and done so well. I’m very thankful for their care and the opportunity they’ve given him, because, regardless of level, I think you need to feel that confidence that will be going through him at the moment.
“I think he’s made a big impact there. I know (Rovers’ first-team coach) Kevin Bond well, and I’m really pleased he’s had such a positive impact on their season.”
From the bits I’ve seen – whether it be his NUFC debut in the FA Cup or U23 games I’ve attended – it’s clear that Anderson is a fearless young talent with bags of ability.
He demands the ball, is brave in possession, physically strong and dynamic; reminding me of a young Ross Barkley.
Once he returns to Tyneside this summer, I’d expect Howe to have a good look at him over pre-season and a host of Championship clubs to be queuing up to take him on loan!
